DEM tech folks By cover art

DEM tech folks

By: Rico Randall
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  • Summary

  • Welcome to DEM tech folks, a podcast created as a space where technology trends and news are passionately discussed while also allowing technology professionals to talk about their journey to a technology based career. This podcast is called DEM Tech Folks with “DEM” as an acronym for “developing every mind.” DEM is also a nod to ebonics, as a way of representing authenticity and inclusivity. We at believe that everyone has the potential to learn and grow in the world of IT, and this platform aims to help people do just that. The goal of this platform is to create a comfortable space where people looking to work in IT can ask questions and learn from experienced professionals. It is understood that breaking into this field can be intimidating, which is why this platform provides a supportive and non-judgmental platform for people to get the information they need.

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Episodes
  • 016: Interview with Corey Morris

    016: Interview with Corey Morris
    May 24 2024
    Recorded on July 13, 2023

    Summary
    The conversation covers Corey Morris's experience, learning from challenges, working within the DoD community, negotiating salaries, troubleshooting stories, transitioning to Microsoft, working in a pod, and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. In this part of the conversation, Corey Morris discusses the importance of understanding and empathy, sharing a personal story about meeting a transgender individual. He also talks about the lack of favoritism and prejudice he has observed at Microsoft. Corey reflects on his experiences in previous roles and the challenges he faced, particularly in obtaining necessary access and support. He emphasizes the value of certifications in the IT industry and how they can open doors for career growth. Corey expresses his passion for mentorship and his desire to help others succeed. He shares his aspirations to be part of the product team at Microsoft and deliver TED Talks.

    Takeaways
    • Corey had a positive experience in the DoD and learned a lot from the challenges he faced.
    • Working at DIA was a different experience, with resistance and a lack of support from colleagues.
    • Negotiating salaries is important, and Corey shared his experience of getting a raise.
    • Corey shared some funny troubleshooting stories from his early days in IT.
    • Transitioning to Microsoft was a significant step in Corey's career, and he now works in a pod supporting multiple customers.
    • Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important values that Corey and his team at Microsoft prioritize. Understanding and empathy are crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive work environment.
    • Certifications hold significant value in the IT industry and can enhance career opportunities.
    • Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth, and having mentors can provide guidance and support.
    • Setting clear career aspirations and surrounding oneself with smart and motivated individuals can contribute to personal and professional success.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dem-tech-folks--5753456/support.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 015: Interview with Ernest Gibbs III

    015: Interview with Ernest Gibbs III
    May 21 2024
    Summary
    Ernest Gibbs III shares his journey into the tech industry, starting from his early interest in computers and troubleshooting. He pursued the A+ certification and landed his first tech job in a call center. Ernest then transitioned to a new tech job where he gained more experience and considered pursuing the Network+ certification. Eventually, he found a role as a DevOps engineer and continues to grow in his career. This conversation explores the importance of representation in the tech industry and the challenges faced by underrepresented individuals. It highlights the desire for influence and advocacy, as well as the journey of transitioning to different tech roles. The conversation also touches on dealing with rejection, finding inspiration, and the benefits of tech programs and bootcamps. It concludes with insights into the job application and interview process, career progression, and advice for those interested in tech.

    Takeaways
    • Developing troubleshooting skills and being the go-to tech person in your family can lead to a career in tech.
    • Certifications like A+ and Network+ can provide a solid foundation and open doors to job opportunities.
    • Networking and job shadowing can help in finding new tech roles and advancing in your career.
    • Continued learning and staying motivated are key to success in the tech industry. Representation in the tech industry is crucial for creating a sense of belonging and ensuring equal opportunities for underrepresented individuals.
    • Feeling like an outsider in the tech industry can be discouraging, but taking a chance and pursuing opportunities can lead to personal growth and success.
    • Having mentors and advocates who look like you can make a significant difference in your career journey.
    • Tech programs and bootcamps provide valuable learning opportunities and can help individuals gain the skills and knowledge needed to enter the tech industry.
    • Dealing with rejection is a part of the journey, but it's important to stay motivated and continue learning and growing.
    • Finding inspiration and motivation from others' success stories can help fuel your own journey in tech.
    • Career progression in tech involves continuous learning and staying up-to-date with new technologies and skills.
    • Choosing between technical and program management roles requires understanding your own interests and strengths.
    • Always be curious and explore different paths in tech to find what excites you the most.
    • Pay it forward by helping others and creating opportunities for the next generation of tech professionals.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dem-tech-folks--5753456/support.
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    54 mins
  • 014: Interview with Samuel Tillman the SRE

    014: Interview with Samuel Tillman the SRE
    May 16 2024
    Samuel Tillman shares his journey from a troubled youth to becoming a successful SRE (Site Reliability Engineer) with the NBA. He discusses his early life, military experience, and how he got interested in technology. Samuel talks about his transition to civilian life and the challenges he faced in finding IT jobs. He also highlights the importance of diversity in the workplace and how the NBA embraces it. Finally, he shares his transition to DevOps and SRE roles and emphasizes the value of self-study and continuous learning in the tech industry. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the rise of AI in the news and the importance of staying updated on new technologies. They also talk about the base requirements and certifications for becoming a Site Reliability Engineer (SRE). The conversation then moves on to learning the cloud and infrastructure as code, with a focus on using Terraform for infrastructure deployment. The speakers also discuss working with managed Kubernetes clusters and the importance of mentoring and helping others in the IT industry. The conversation covers various topics related to learning and working in the IT industry, with a focus on opportunities for growth and development.

    Takeaways:
    • AI is a rapidly evolving field that is constantly in the news, and it is important for IT professionals to stay updated on new technologies.
    • To become an SRE, it is important to have a strong foundation in networking and to obtain relevant certifications such as CompTIA's A+, Network+, and Security+.
    • Learning the cloud and infrastructure as code is essential for SREs, and tools like Terraform can be used to deploy and manage infrastructure.
    • Choosing a cloud provider and becoming familiar with their platform is crucial for SREs, and it is recommended to start with the cloud provider that aligns with your existing skills and experience.
    • Managed Kubernetes clusters are becoming more common, and it is important for SREs to understand how to work with them.
    • Mentoring and helping others in the IT industry is a valuable way to give back and contribute to the community. Cura Labs in New York offers a free bootcamp for learning DevOps.
    • Some individuals can go from zero to hero in just six months with the right training and resources.
    • New York provides great opportunities for IT professionals, with high-paying jobs and access to industry leaders.
    • Keeping cloud services running is a crucial role in the IT industry, ensuring that applications are always available.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dem-tech-folks--5753456/support.
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    1 hr and 4 mins
Career Success Economics Personal Success
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